Growing Gulf Coast Reef Fish Populations Ahead of 2025 Red Snapper Season

Gulf Coast reef fish populations are on the rise as the 2025 Red Snapper season approaches, based on an annual survey by the University of Southern Alabama.

The Stokes School of Marine Environmental Science recently presented findings to the Alabama Marine Resources Division. This research focused on fish populations around over 10,000 artificial reefs off Alabama’s coast. While the average size of red snappers is currently lower compared to some previous years, their overall numbers have increased recently.

The study utilized a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) with a camera to capture images of fish in Gulf waters, which helps researchers estimate their populations. Interestingly, 2024 marked the highest recorded number of red snappers since the survey started in 2011.

The combination of this data and habitat mapping aids in estimating the size and trends of fish populations using these artificial coral reefs.

“We have a robust red snapper population in our Gulf region,” noted Dr. Shawn Powers, director of the Stokes School of Marine Environmental Science. He emphasized that management and scientific strategies are being developed to cater to the needs of various fishing groups.

The upcoming 2025 Red Snapper Season is set to commence for private and state-licensed charter vessel anglers on Friday, May 23rd, continuing until June 30th. The projected quota for Alabama private anglers, as determined by the National Marine Fisheries Service, is around 664,552 pounds.

“Alabama is fortunate to have excellent fisheries resources,” commented Chris Blankenship, chairman of the Alabama Department of Natural Resources. He highlighted the importance of the collaboration with the University of Southern Alabama for advanced fisheries research and ongoing data collection to inform decision-making.

For anglers, the daily bag limit is two red snappers per person, with a minimum size requirement of 16 inches. Additionally, anyone over 16 must possess an Alabama Saltwater Fishing License—either resident or non-resident, annual or temporary. Alabama residents aged 65 and older, or those with lifetime saltwater licenses, need to have a current Saltwater Angler Registration.

The study received funding from multiple sources, including the Alabama Department of Natural Resources, the Division of Marine Resources, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and the Sport Fish Restoration Program, supported by grants managed through purchases by Alabama saltwater anglers.